Trinity Byars, a forward from the University of Texas, has been signed by the San Diego Wave in a historic move.
Byars became the first collegiate athlete to sign a direct contract with a NWSL team since the league eliminated the draft when he agreed to a three-year deal.
“At the collegiate level, Trinity has shown itself to be one of the most dynamic and exciting forwards,” stated general manager and athletic director Camille Ashton.
“We think she will be a fantastic addition to our team because of her unique ability to play between the lines and threaten in behind.”
At the University of Texas, Byars holds the all-time records for goals (47), game-winning goals (17), and hat tricks (4). The forward was a three-season standout for the Longhorns before missing the most of her senior year due to a September knee injury.
The 21-year-old started each of the three group matches at the 2022 U-20 Women’s World Cup and has played for the United States at multiple junior international levels.
Among other significant changes, the NWSL Players Association and NWSL negotiated a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) in August that eliminated the college draft.
At the time, NWSLPA President Tori Huster declared, “The draft is an outdated model that empowers teams to decide for players instead of players deciding for themselves.”
Players can now select the team setting that best suits their requirements and makes the most of their chances. It will be up to the teams to design player-friendly environments.
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